The murder of women and girls is the most extreme form of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), with South Africa being known for having one of the highest rates of femicide in the world. Women, who make up 51.5% of South Africa's population, face ongoing violence or femicide.
The Human Science and Research Council's 2022 Gender-Based Violence survey revealed that over 33% of South African women have experienced physical violence, and about 9.8% have faced sexual violence. This equates to approximately 7.3 million women physically abused and 2.1 million sexually violated.
The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Gender & Health Research Unit has since revealed that South Africa continues to have some of the highest femicide rates in the world. Most cases of femicide perpetrated by partners or ex-partners involve ongoing domestic abuse, threats or intimidation, sexual violence, or situations where women possess less power or fewer resources than their partners. South African Women have higher unemployment rates and higher levels of poverty.
The National Strategic Plan was adopted in 2020 as a society-wide programme to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. It is organised around six pillars, which are aimed at The Prevention of GBV, Strengthening The Criminal Justice Response to end GBV, and Providing Support, Care and healing to Survivors of Gender-Based Violence.
This phenomenon is propelled by discrimination against women and girls, unequal power dynamics, entrenched gender stereotypes, and harmful social norms, all of which may escalate to fatal consequences. “The statistics on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide are staggering, with each number representing a human being; These numbers reflect lives disrupted, dreams deferred, and futures dimmed by violence”, said Minister Chikunga.
South Africa has been instrumental in developing the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (AUCEVAWG), providing a comprehensive framework for protecting women's and girls' rights across Africa. Key initiatives include: Legislative Reforms: Passing the Domestic Violence Act, Sexual Offences Act, and the National Council on Gender-Based Violence Act.
“We unequivocally call on all men as perpetrators to pledge to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, recognising it as a human rights violation and committing to challenge harmful norms and toxic masculinity”. Conclude Minister Chikunga.
Working with all stakeholders and civil society, the department will act with courage, compassion, and determination to create a South Africa where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence. This is not just a dream; it is a necessity within our reach. We all have the power and responsibility to shape this future.
Media enquiries:
Cassius Selala – Head of Communications
Tel: 060 534 0672
Nompendulo Mkhatshwa – Spokesperson: Ministry of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities
Tel: 083 406 6496
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